How to Get Help for Abused Children
- 1). Call the local police or sheriff's office immediately if you suspect a child is a victim of abuse. The health and welfare of a child is best protected when early intervention in an abusive situation is obtained. Police and sheriff's officers are best equipped to respond immediately to a situation in which a child's safety is at risk. Law-enforcement officials likely will have you prepare a written statement. In most cases, law enforcement agencies will keep your identity confidential.
- 2). Contact child protective services. All states have agencies designed to oversee and protect the welfare of children. Many of these agencies maintain local offices on the county level. Therefore, you more than likely will be able to connect directly with such an agency through the local county courthouse information center. Additionally, most child protective services agencies maintain around-the-clock, toll-free hot lines through which you can report abusive situations. Ultimately, child protective services will seek a written statement from you.
- 3). Use nationwide resources to assist in finding specific resources to aid you in getting help for abused children. The ChildHelp Child Abuse Hot Line is available around the clock at (800) 422-4453.
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